Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for mitigating interference in a wireless communication network comprising: sensing with a wireless communication device pulses of electromagnetic radiation recurring within a band of frequencies used by the wireless communication device for communication of signals; identifying the pulses as interference; determining a number of frequencies in the interference within the band of frequencies; reducing sensitivity of the wireless communication device upon sensing one of the pulses at a frequency corresponding to the frequency of the interference; communicating a signal with the wireless communication device while operating at the reduced sensitivity; and temporarily reversing the reduction in sensitivity of the wireless communication device, and if pulses of electromagnetic radiation are not sensed by the wireless communication device during a predetermined period of time, ceasing the reduction in sensitivity of the wireless communication device until pulses of electromagnetic radiation are sensed and identified as interference.
A wireless communication network may experience interference from recurring pulses of electromagnetic radiation within the frequency band used for signal communication. This interference can degrade performance and reliability. The invention addresses this problem by implementing a method to detect and mitigate such interference. A wireless communication device senses pulses of electromagnetic radiation recurring within its operational frequency band. The device identifies these pulses as interference and determines the number of affected frequencies within the band. Upon detecting a pulse at a frequency matching the interference, the device reduces its sensitivity to minimize the impact of the interference. The device then communicates signals while operating at this reduced sensitivity. If no pulses are sensed for a predetermined period, the device temporarily reverses the sensitivity reduction. If no further interference is detected, the sensitivity reduction is ceased until new interference pulses are sensed and identified. This approach dynamically adjusts the device's sensitivity to maintain communication quality in the presence of intermittent interference.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the signal comprises a number of packets including header information and data, and wherein identifying the pulses as interference comprises determining the pulses do not include header information or data.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for detecting and mitigating interference in packet-based transmissions. The problem addressed is the presence of unwanted pulses in received signals that disrupt data communication, particularly in systems where interference pulses lack the structured format of legitimate packets. The method involves analyzing incoming signals composed of multiple packets, each containing header information and payload data. To identify interference, the system checks whether detected pulses conform to the expected packet structure. If a pulse does not include recognizable header information or data fields, it is classified as interference. This approach distinguishes between valid transmissions and spurious signals, allowing the system to filter out or ignore interference pulses while processing legitimate data. The technique is particularly useful in environments where interference pulses may resemble legitimate signals in certain characteristics (e.g., frequency or amplitude) but lack the proper packet formatting. By focusing on the absence of header and data fields, the method provides a reliable way to detect and reject interference without requiring complex signal analysis. This improves communication reliability in noisy or congested wireless networks.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein the wireless communication network is a Bluetooth (BT) network, and wherein the number of packets includes BT packets.
This invention relates to wireless communication networks, specifically addressing the challenge of managing and analyzing packet data within such networks. The method involves monitoring and collecting packet data from a wireless communication network, where the network is a Bluetooth (BT) network, and the collected data includes BT packets. The method further involves processing this packet data to determine a number of packets, which can be used for various purposes such as network performance analysis, troubleshooting, or optimization. The processing may include filtering, counting, or analyzing the packets to extract relevant information. The collected and processed packet data can then be stored or transmitted for further use. The method ensures efficient handling of packet data in Bluetooth networks, enabling better network management and improved communication reliability. The invention may also include additional steps such as identifying specific types of BT packets or analyzing packet transmission patterns to enhance network performance. The overall approach provides a systematic way to monitor and utilize packet data in Bluetooth networks, addressing the need for effective network diagnostics and optimization.
4. The method of claim 2 wherein the wireless communication network is a Wi-Fi network, and wherein the number of packets includes Wi-Fi packets.
This invention relates to monitoring and analyzing wireless communication networks, specifically focusing on Wi-Fi networks. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently track and assess network performance by measuring the number of packets transmitted within the network. The invention provides a method for monitoring Wi-Fi networks by counting the number of Wi-Fi packets exchanged between devices. This method helps in evaluating network traffic, identifying congestion, and optimizing performance. The counted packets may include various types of Wi-Fi data packets, such as data frames, control frames, and management frames, which are essential for maintaining network connectivity and performance. By analyzing the packet count, network administrators can detect anomalies, diagnose issues, and improve overall network efficiency. The method is particularly useful in environments where real-time monitoring and quick response to network problems are critical, such as in enterprise settings, public Wi-Fi hotspots, and smart home networks. The invention enhances network management by providing a straightforward yet effective way to monitor Wi-Fi traffic and ensure reliable communication.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein reducing sensitivity of the wireless communication device comprises reducing gain of an amplifier in a receiving circuit of the wireless communication device.
A wireless communication device may experience interference or signal overload when operating in environments with strong or unwanted signals. To mitigate this, the device can reduce its sensitivity to incoming signals by adjusting the gain of an amplifier in its receiving circuit. The amplifier, which amplifies received signals for processing, can be dynamically adjusted to lower its gain when high signal levels are detected. This reduction in gain prevents signal distortion or saturation, improving the device's ability to handle strong interference while maintaining communication quality. The adjustment can be performed automatically based on detected signal strength or manually by a user or system administrator. This approach is particularly useful in environments with varying signal conditions, such as urban areas with dense wireless networks or industrial settings with high electromagnetic interference. By controlling the amplifier gain, the device can optimize its performance without requiring hardware modifications, ensuring reliable communication in challenging conditions.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein reducing sensitivity of the wireless communication device comprises decoupling an antenna from a receiving circuit of the wireless communication device.
This invention relates to wireless communication devices and methods for reducing their sensitivity to interference or unwanted signals. The core problem addressed is the susceptibility of wireless devices to performance degradation due to external electromagnetic interference or unintended signal reception, which can disrupt communication or drain power. The method involves selectively reducing the sensitivity of a wireless communication device by decoupling its antenna from the receiving circuit. This decoupling effectively isolates the antenna from the receiver, preventing it from picking up unwanted signals or interference. The decoupling can be temporary or permanent, depending on the operational needs of the device. The method may also include re-coupling the antenna to the receiving circuit when normal operation is required, ensuring flexibility in managing signal reception. The invention may be applied in various wireless communication systems, including but not limited to cellular networks, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other radio frequency (RF) communication technologies. By dynamically adjusting the antenna's connection to the receiver, the device can optimize performance, reduce power consumption, and minimize interference in noisy environments. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where the device needs to prioritize transmission over reception or when operating in high-interference areas. The method enhances the reliability and efficiency of wireless communication devices in diverse operational conditions.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein the pulses of electromagnetic radiation emanate from a non-communication device.
A system and method for generating and utilizing electromagnetic radiation pulses from a non-communication device to achieve a specific technical effect. The invention addresses the need for precise, controlled electromagnetic pulse generation in applications where traditional communication devices are not suitable or where interference with communication systems must be avoided. The non-communication device emits pulses of electromagnetic radiation, which are modulated or configured to interact with a target system or environment in a controlled manner. The pulses may be generated using specialized circuitry or components designed to produce electromagnetic radiation at specific frequencies, amplitudes, or durations. The system may include mechanisms to adjust the pulse characteristics dynamically based on feedback or predefined parameters. The pulses can be used for various purposes, such as sensing, actuation, or material processing, without relying on communication protocols or interfering with existing communication networks. The invention ensures that the electromagnetic pulses are isolated from communication frequencies, preventing unintended disruptions while enabling targeted applications. The method may also include synchronization or timing mechanisms to coordinate the pulse generation with other system components or external events. The non-communication device may be integrated into larger systems where electromagnetic pulses are required for functional operations, such as industrial automation, scientific instrumentation, or medical devices. The invention provides a robust solution for generating electromagnetic pulses in environments where communication devices are either unnecessary or undesirable.
8. The method of claim 7 wherein the non-communication device comprises a microwave appliance.
A method for controlling a microwave appliance involves integrating a communication module into the appliance to enable remote monitoring and control. The microwave appliance includes a user interface for local operation, but the communication module allows external devices, such as smartphones or computers, to send commands to the appliance. These commands can adjust settings like cooking time, power level, or mode selection. The communication module also transmits operational data, such as cooking status or error messages, back to the external device. This system enhances convenience by enabling remote operation and monitoring, addressing the problem of users needing to be physically present to control or check the microwave. The method ensures compatibility with existing microwave designs by retrofitting the communication module without altering core functionality. The appliance may also include sensors to detect conditions like food temperature or door status, which are relayed to the external device for improved control and safety. The communication module operates over wireless networks, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, to facilitate seamless connectivity. This approach solves the limitation of traditional microwaves that lack remote access, providing users with greater flexibility and automation in kitchen tasks.
9. The method of claim 7 wherein the non-communication device coexists with the wireless communication device within range of the wireless communication network.
A wireless communication system includes a wireless communication device and a non-communication device that coexist within the range of a wireless communication network. The wireless communication device operates using a first communication protocol, while the non-communication device operates using a second communication protocol. The system detects interference between the two devices and dynamically adjusts the communication parameters of the wireless communication device to mitigate the interference. This adjustment may involve modifying transmission power, frequency channels, or timing to ensure reliable operation of both devices. The non-communication device may be a sensor, actuator, or other electronic device that does not actively participate in the wireless network but still affects or is affected by wireless signals. The system monitors signal quality metrics, such as signal-to-noise ratio or packet error rate, to determine when adjustments are needed. The adjustments are made automatically without manual intervention, ensuring continuous and efficient coexistence between the devices. This approach prevents performance degradation in the wireless communication network while allowing the non-communication device to function properly. The solution is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices operate in close proximity, such as industrial settings, smart homes, or medical facilities.
10. The method of claim 7 wherein the non-communication device is co-located with the wireless communication device.
A system and method for integrating a non-communication device with a wireless communication device to enhance functionality. The non-communication device, such as a sensor, actuator, or processing unit, is co-located with the wireless communication device, allowing for direct interaction without requiring separate communication infrastructure. The wireless communication device handles data transmission and reception, while the non-communication device performs specialized tasks like sensing environmental conditions, controlling physical systems, or processing data locally. By co-locating these devices, the system reduces latency, improves efficiency, and minimizes power consumption compared to traditional setups where the non-communication device must communicate through an intermediary. The wireless communication device may also manage power distribution, ensuring optimal operation of the non-communication device. This integration is particularly useful in IoT applications, industrial automation, and smart environments where real-time data processing and control are critical. The co-location eliminates the need for additional wiring or wireless links, simplifying deployment and reducing costs. The system ensures seamless coordination between the devices, enabling advanced functionalities such as adaptive sensing, predictive maintenance, and dynamic control.
11. The method of claim 1 further comprising signaling other access points and stations in the wireless network about periods when the wireless communication device is not available due to interference.
A wireless communication device operates in a network where interference from other devices can disrupt communication. To mitigate this, the device identifies periods when it will be unavailable due to interference, such as when it is transmitting or receiving data on overlapping channels. The device then signals other access points and stations in the network about these unavailable periods, allowing them to adjust their communication schedules to avoid conflicts. This signaling can be done through control messages or beacon frames, ensuring that other devices are aware of the interference and can coordinate their transmissions accordingly. The method helps reduce collisions and improve overall network efficiency by preventing overlapping transmissions during the device's unavailable periods. The device may also monitor the network to detect interference sources and dynamically adjust its signaling based on changing conditions. This approach is particularly useful in dense wireless environments where multiple devices operate on overlapping channels.
12. An integrated circuit (IC) comprising: a receiver for coupling to an antenna, the receiver configured to sense pulses of electromagnetic radiation and decode signals received therein; a transmitter for coupling to the antenna and configured to encode and transmit signals as electromagnetic radiation from the antenna; and a processor coupled to the receiver and transmitter to control operation thereof, wherein the processor is configured to: identify interference among the pulses received by the receiver; determine a number of frequencies in the interference within a band of frequencies used by the receiver; and reduce sensitivity of the receiver upon sensing one of the pulses at a frequency corresponding to the frequency of the interference, wherein the processor is further configured to temporarily reverse the reduction in sensitivity and if interference is not identified during a predetermined period of time, cease the reduction in sensitivity of the receiver until interference is identified.
An integrated circuit (IC) is designed for wireless communication systems, addressing interference issues in electromagnetic signal reception. The IC includes a receiver coupled to an antenna that detects and decodes electromagnetic pulses, a transmitter that encodes and transmits signals via the antenna, and a processor controlling both components. The processor identifies interference among received pulses, analyzes the number of interfering frequencies within the receiver's operational band, and dynamically adjusts the receiver's sensitivity to mitigate interference. When a pulse matches an interfering frequency, the receiver's sensitivity is reduced. The processor temporarily reverses this reduction to check for interference absence over a set period. If no interference is detected, the sensitivity reduction is permanently disabled until interference is reidentified. This adaptive approach enhances signal integrity by dynamically responding to interference conditions without permanent sensitivity loss. The system ensures reliable communication by balancing interference suppression and signal reception quality.
13. The IC of claim 12 wherein the signal comprises a number of packets including header information and data, and wherein the processor identifies the interference by determining the pulses do not include header information or data.
This invention relates to integrated circuits (ICs) designed to detect and mitigate interference in wireless communication systems. The problem addressed is the presence of unwanted signals or noise that disrupts data transmission, particularly in packet-based communication protocols where packets contain header information and payload data. The IC includes a processor that analyzes incoming signals to distinguish between valid data packets and interference. The processor identifies interference by detecting the absence of header information and data in the received pulses. This allows the IC to filter out or ignore interference, improving communication reliability. The IC may also include a receiver to capture the signal and a transmitter to send processed data. The processor can further classify interference based on pulse characteristics, such as duration or amplitude, to enhance detection accuracy. The system is particularly useful in environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference, such as industrial or military applications, where robust signal integrity is critical. By accurately identifying and rejecting interference, the IC ensures that only valid data packets are processed, reducing errors and improving system performance.
14. The IC of claim 12 further comprising a switch between the antenna and the receiver and transmitter, wherein reducing sensitivity of the receiver comprises controlling the switch to decouple the antenna from the receiver.
This invention relates to integrated circuits (ICs) for wireless communication systems, specifically addressing power efficiency and interference management in devices with shared antennas. The problem solved is the excessive power consumption and potential signal interference when a receiver remains active while a transmitter is operating, particularly in systems where a single antenna is shared between a receiver and a transmitter. The invention improves power efficiency by dynamically adjusting the receiver's sensitivity and reducing interference by decoupling the antenna from the receiver during transmission. The IC includes a receiver, a transmitter, and an antenna shared between them. A switch is placed between the antenna and the receiver-transmitter pair. When the transmitter is active, the switch decouples the antenna from the receiver, reducing the receiver's sensitivity to incoming signals. This prevents the receiver from unnecessarily consuming power while the transmitter is active and minimizes interference between the two components. The switch can be controlled by a control circuit that monitors the operational state of the transmitter and receiver, ensuring optimal performance and power efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in wireless communication devices where power efficiency and signal integrity are critical, such as in mobile devices and IoT applications.
15. An appliance including an integrated circuit (IC), the IC comprising: a receiver coupled to an antenna, the receiver configured to sense pulses of electromagnetic radiation and decode therefrom signals comprising a number of packets including header information and data; a transmitter coupled to the antenna and configured to encode and transmit signals from the antenna as electromagnetic radiation; and a processor coupled to the receiver and transmitter to control operation thereof, wherein the processor is configured to: identify interference among the pulses received by the receiver; determine a number of frequencies in the interference within a band of frequencies used by the receiver; reduce a sensitivity of the receiver upon sensing one of the pulses at a frequency corresponding to the frequency of the interference; and temporarily restoring the sensitivity of the receiver until pulses of electromagnetic radiation are sensed and identified as interference.
This invention relates to an appliance with an integrated circuit (IC) designed to improve wireless communication by mitigating interference. The IC includes a receiver, transmitter, and processor, all coupled to an antenna. The receiver detects and decodes electromagnetic radiation pulses, extracting signals composed of packets with header information and data. The transmitter encodes and transmits signals via the antenna. The processor controls the receiver and transmitter, identifying interference among received pulses and determining the number of interfering frequencies within the receiver's operational band. When interference is detected at a specific frequency, the processor reduces the receiver's sensitivity to suppress the interference. This reduction is temporary, and the receiver's sensitivity is restored once pulses are sensed and confirmed as interference. The system dynamically adjusts sensitivity to maintain communication quality in noisy environments. The IC's design ensures robust signal processing by selectively attenuating interference while preserving legitimate signal reception. This approach enhances reliability in wireless communication systems, particularly in appliances where interference mitigation is critical.
16. The appliance of claim 15 wherein the signal comprises, and wherein the processor identifies the interference by determining the pulses do not include header information or data.
This invention relates to signal processing in electronic appliances, specifically addressing the detection of interference signals that lack proper header information or data. The system includes an appliance with a processor configured to analyze incoming signals for interference. The processor identifies interference by detecting pulses that do not contain expected header information or data, distinguishing them from valid signals. The appliance may also include a receiver to capture the signals and a transmitter to send processed data. The processor further evaluates signal characteristics, such as pulse timing or amplitude, to confirm interference. The system may be used in communication devices, industrial equipment, or other electronic systems where signal integrity is critical. The invention improves reliability by filtering out corrupted or unintended signals, ensuring only valid data is processed. The method involves continuous monitoring of signal patterns to detect anomalies, enhancing system robustness against interference. The appliance may also include memory to store signal profiles for comparison, allowing adaptive interference detection. The solution is particularly useful in environments with high electromagnetic noise or where signal integrity is essential for operation.
17. The appliance of claim 15 wherein reducing sensitivity of the receiver comprises reducing gain of an amplifier in the receiver.
This invention relates to a method for improving the performance of a receiver in a communication system, particularly in environments with high interference or noise levels. The receiver includes an amplifier that amplifies incoming signals before processing. The method involves dynamically adjusting the sensitivity of the receiver to mitigate the effects of interference or noise, thereby improving signal quality and reliability. The receiver sensitivity is reduced by lowering the gain of the amplifier. This adjustment can be performed based on detected interference levels, signal strength, or other performance metrics. By reducing the amplifier gain, the receiver becomes less susceptible to strong interfering signals or noise, which can otherwise overwhelm the desired signal. This approach helps maintain signal integrity and reduces the likelihood of false detections or errors in communication systems. The method is particularly useful in wireless communication systems, such as IoT devices, where interference from other devices or environmental noise can degrade performance. By dynamically adjusting the amplifier gain, the receiver can adapt to changing conditions, ensuring reliable communication even in challenging environments. The invention provides a simple yet effective way to enhance receiver performance without requiring complex signal processing techniques.
18. The appliance of claim 15 further comprising a microwave oven co-located with the IC, and wherein the interference emanates from the microwave oven.
This invention relates to integrated circuits (ICs) and addresses the problem of electromagnetic interference (EMI) affecting IC performance, particularly when the IC is co-located with a microwave oven. The microwave oven generates high-frequency electromagnetic radiation that can disrupt the operation of nearby electronic components, including ICs. The invention provides a solution by incorporating interference mitigation techniques into the IC design to ensure reliable operation despite the presence of EMI from the microwave oven. The IC includes shielding, filtering, or other EMI suppression mechanisms to reduce the impact of the microwave oven's interference. Additionally, the IC may include error detection and correction circuits to handle any residual interference that bypasses the primary mitigation measures. The microwave oven is integrated into the same system as the IC, meaning they share a common housing or are physically close enough for the oven's EMI to affect the IC. The invention ensures that the IC remains functional and accurate even when exposed to the microwave oven's electromagnetic emissions. This is particularly useful in applications where space constraints require close proximity between high-EMI devices like microwave ovens and sensitive electronic components like ICs.
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October 13, 2020
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